Area attractions offer plenty to see, do & enjoy

Written by Press Staff Writer

June 18, 2013

Hits: 2831

Share

Toledo ZooThe Toledo Zoo is recognized as one of the world’s most complete zoos, and one of the region’s top family destinations. It boasts over 6,000 mammals, fish, reptiles, amphibians, birds and invertebrates representing more than 750 species, and innovative exhibits also get visitors up-close to many of your favorites.

Each year, nearly one million people visit the zoo to experience the wonders of the natural world, stroll the scenic grounds and explore the historic WPA-era buildings. Zoo highlights include the Arctic Encounter, the Africa! exhibit, Nature’s Neighborhood children’s area, the Tembo Trail, and the new Australian-themed Wild Walkabout, which runs through Sept. 2.

Wild Walkabout will lead visitors through a journey that will bring them face-to-face with some of the world’s most unusual reptiles, birds, mammals and fish, including a saltwater crocodile, death adder, coastal taipan, green tree python, kookaburra and wallaby.2 Hippo Way, Toledo419-385-4040, www.toledozoo.org

Toledo Museum of ArtExperience one of the finest and most diverse collections of artwork in the country at the Toledo Museum of Art. Discover treasures ranging from ancient Egypt to contemporary art, including glass, sculpture, European and American painting, African and Asian art, graphic arts and decorative arts.

Other highlights include the Sculpture Garden outside and the architecturally renowned Glass Pavilion, located across Monroe Street. 2445 Monroe St., Toledo419-255-8000 or 800-644-6862, www.toledomuseum.org

Imagination Station Toledo Ready to experience the unexpected? Explore the exciting? Imagination Station – Toledo’s hands-on science museum – promises to immerse visitors of every age in a multi-sensory experience that’s as fun as it is educational.

Defy gravity as you ride the High Wire Cycle 20 feet above the atrium; or visit the Learning Worlds designed to focus on a specific science genre – Energy Factory, Mind Zone, Water Works, Little Kidspace, and more. A number of special exhibits and events are planned throughout the year, including “Grossology, The (Impolite) Science of the Human Body,” which runs through Sept. 2. One Discovery Way, Toledo419-244-2674, www.imaginationstationtoledo.org

Toledo Botanical GardenOriginally consisting of 20 acres donated by George P. Crosby to the City of Toledo, Toledo Botanical Garden now encompasses more than 60 acres of beauty, tranquility and opportunities for exploration and reflection. It is currently a public/private partnership between Metroparks and the non-profit Toledo Botanical Garden Board, Inc. in collaboration with the City of Toledo.

A living museum for plants, Toledo Botanical Garden’s notable gardens include shade, perennial, English border, aquatic, herb, rose, dahlia and grass, among others.

Tony Packo’s CaféTony Packo’s is famous for its Hungarian-style hot dogs, for its hot dog buns signed by movie stars, other celebrities and U .S. Presidents and for its frequent mention by Toledo’s Jamie Farr on the TV series M*A*S*H*.

In addition to the flagship eatery, Packo’s has a location across from Fifth Third Field, home of the Toledo Mud Hens.1902 Front St., Toledo800-366-4218, www.tonypackos.com

Hollywood Casino ToledoPenn National Gaming extends the red carpet to Hollywood Casino Toledo, located just off I-75 on the banks of the Maumee River.

The casino, which opened last year, offers 2,000 slot machine and table game positions, a sports bar, restaurants and an entertainment lounge.777 Hollywood Blvd., Toledowww.hollywoodcasinotoledo.com

The Butterfly HouseHundreds of live butterflies from North America, Central America and Asia can be seen in a beautiful indoor garden setting. Open May-August Monday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday noon-5 p.m.; September Thursday-Saturday 10 a.m.-5 p.m. and Sunday noon-5 p.m. and weekends noon-5 p.m. in October.11455 Obee Rd., Whitehouse419-877-2733, www.butterfly-house.com

Sundance Kid Drive-In Spend an evening under the stars at the Sundance Kid Drive-in, located across from Pearson Park. First-run films are offered on two screens April through October. The 50’s-style drive-in has all the nostalgia and the best in FM Stereo sound. Concession stand and the Butch Cassidy Canteen, a concession wagon is available.

Admission prices are $8.75 per adult and $3.75 each for children 6-12. (Children ages 5 and under are free.) 4500 Navarre, Oregon 419-691-9668, www.greateasterntheatres.com

Green spaces• Metroparks of the Toledo Area preserves many of Lucas County’s most unique natural areas, from the Oak Openings to the Lake Erie coastal zone.

Locally, Pearson Metropark, located at 761 Lallendorf Rd., Oregon, is one of the last remaining stands of the Great Black Swamp, a notorious forest that once blanketed much of Northwest Ohio. The thick woods and location close to Lake Erie make Pearson a favorite stopover for a wide variety of migrating birds.

Pearson includes picnic areas, a playground, ball diamonds, a soccer field, tennis courts, walking trails, historical WPA buildings and bridges and more. Pioneers of all ages are invited to enjoy the Johlin Black Swamp Cabin, where they learn about home life in the 1800s.

Open 7 a.m. until dark every day; extended hours for winter recreation.

Metroparks of the Toledo Area419-407-9700, www.metroparkstoledo.com• Maumee Bay State Park 1400 State Park Rd., in Oregon and Maumee Bay Lodge and Conference Center, 1750 State Park Rd., offer not only the finest of recreational facilities but also a unique natural environment created by the convergence of the land and Lake Erie.

The balance of recreational facilities with the natural world gives visitors a diverse experience in a coastal environment.

• The Wood County Park District oversees several park facilities in the county, including Cedar Creeks Preserve, a 42-acre tract located east of Walbridge where Woodville Road (SR 51) crosses Walbridge Road. The park is an excellent example of the former Black Swamp that once covered a large portion of Northwest Ohio and includes hiking trails, a footbridge, picnic tables, restrooms and an information kiosk.

William Henry Harrison Park, located in Pemberville along the Portage River, offers picnic areas, an open-air shelter, playground, hiking trails, and a large open field for a variety of uses.419-353-1897, woodcountyparkdistrict.org.• The Sandusky County Park District operates 10 facilities, including the 93-acre Wolf Creek Park, 160-acre Blue Huron Reserve, the Mull Covered Bridge, the 310-acre Creek Ben Farm and others. White Star Park, located south of Gibsonburg on SR 300, has a quarry up to 40 feet deep that is used by scuba divers throughout the region as well as for non-power boating and fishing; a beach with changing rooms and a concession stand, and a campground located across from the park’s main entrance that has electric and water hookups and primitive campsites on a reservation basis.

• East Harbor State Park, 1169 N. Buck Rd off SR 269 in Marblehead, on the shores of Lake Erie. The park has unlimited opportunities for outdoor recreation. Boating, fishing, swimming, picnicking and camping are popular while nature enthusiasts will enjoy the abundance of waterfowl, shorebirds and other species of wildlife found in the park’s scenic wetlands.419-734-4424, 1-866-644-6727 (camp reservations), www.eastharborstatepark.org

• Marblehead Lighthouse State Park, 110 Lighthouse Dr., Marblehead. One of Lake Erie’s best known and most-photographed landmarks, the lighthouse is one of Ohio’s newest state parks. The grounds surrounding the lighthouse offer excellent picnicking and views of Lake Erie, Sandusky Bay, Kelleys Island, South Bass Island and Cedar Point. The park is open year-round.

The Keeper’s House, the oldest surviving home in Ottawa County, offers visitors the chance to experience the history of lighthouse keepers. The 1822 home was the residence of the first three keepers of the oldest continually operated lighthouse on the Great Lakes. 419-734-4424 ext. 2, dnr.state.oh.us/parks

Schedel Arboretum The Schedel Arboretum was home to Joseph and Marie Schedel for more than 50 years before opening to the public in 1991.

The arboretum has more than 17 scenic acres that border along the Portage River just outside of Elmore. See gardens of nearly 20,000 annuals, roses, perennials, irises and lilies, including a Japanese garden complete with Torii, waterfall, pools, lanterns, bridges and a pagoda. A number of special exhibits and events are planned throughout the year, including exhibits in the Trellis Gallery, which has become a showcase for local artists. Group tours of the grounds and mansion are available by appointment.

Regular hours May-October, Tuesday-Saturday 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Sunday 12-4 p.m. Closed Mondays. A number of special events are held throughout the year.19255 W. Portage River South Rd., Elmore 419-862-3182, www.schedel-gardens.org

Religious sitesOur Lady of Lourdes GrottoThe grotto at Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Genoa is constructed of “tufa,” fossilized vegetation found in the “blue hole” at Castilia, O. A ground-level statue of a praying Saint Bernadette Souberious looks up admiringly at Our Lady. The grounds include a small altar, an adjoining bell tower of tufa, arches and outdoor Stations of the Cross in hand-carved Italian bronze. 204 S. Main St., Genoa, 419-855-8501

Our Lady of Toledo ShrineOur Lady of Toledo Shrine is a place of prayer, quiet reflection and healing. All faiths are welcome. The garden and well are open during daylight hours. 655 S. Coy Rd., Oregon, 419-697-7742 Holy Rosary Cathedral

Visitors will be moved by the beauty of the cathedral’s Old World style, and by the visual strength of its symbol as the primary church of Roman Catholic Diocese of Toledo. The cathedral is Spanish Plateresque in design – the only one of its kind in North America. Thousands have been inspired by the graceful beauty of its piers and arches; by the richly decorated nave ceiling with scenes from the Old Testament, the half-domed apse embellished by frescoes in the Keim process, and by one of its most striking gems, the Rose Window, which sparkles and radiates in the changing light of the eastern sun. 2535 Collingwood Blvd., Toledo419-244-9575, rosarycathedral.org

Sorrowful Mother ShrineThe Sorrowful Mother Shrine’s 120-acre grounds feature 40 points of interest including grottos, Sorrowful Mother Chapel, Pieta Outdoor Chapel, plus the Stations of the Cross. Founded in 1850, the original shrine is the oldest place of pilgrimage dedicated to Mary in the Midwest.

Cafeteria, picnic area and gift shop available. Handicap-accessible. There is no cost, however freewill offerings are accepted.

Cedar PointCedar Point has been voted “The Best Amusement Park in the World” by “Amusement Today” readers for 15 years running, In 2013, Cedar Point debuted the GateKeeper coaster – record-breaking winged roller coaster that boasts the longest drop of any winged roller coaster on the planet. The park also features more than 70 rides, 16 of which are coasters including Millennium Force, which holds the title of number one steel coaster on the planet, plus four children's areas, an ice-skating extravaganza, Dinosaurs Alive!, Luminosity light show, and musical entertainment.

Overnight guests enjoy convenient resort accommodations within walking distances to the park from the historic beachfront Hotel Breakers to an RV campground.

In September and October, HalloWeekends offer even more screams as amusement park thrills combine with spooky chills for family-friendly fun during the day and terrifying nighttime frights.

Cedar Point’s Castaway Bay Castaway Bay indoor waterpark resort features liquid fun for the whole family in a tropical island setting. Adventures include a wave pool, water coaster, slides, kiddie water play areas, and children's activities, including a visit from Snoopy and his Peanuts friends. The resort also has a day spa, state-of-the-art arcade, restaurants, and retail shops. Overnight guests also enjoy early entry and ticket discounts for Cedar Point, in season. 2001 Cleveland Rd. (US 6), Sandusky 877-FUN-SPLASH, www.castawaybay.com

Soak CityAn 18-acre outdoor waterpark located on a Lake Erie beach next to Cedar Point. Soak City features Dragster H2O, a towering multi-lane mat racer; Splash Zone, a huge bucket and multi-story interactive water play area with tipping bucket; a half-million-gallon wave pool; Zoom Flume raft ride; tube slides; a wild inner tube river and a relaxing, meandering river. Choo-Choo Lagoon and Tadpole Town offer fun for little ones. Eerie Falls plunges riders into dark tunnels, and Adventure Cove is a great place for parents and children to play. For adults only, there's Bubbles Swim-Up Bar and adjacent hot tub.

Soak City guests also enjoy the Cedar Point Beach. Open daily through Labor Day. 1 Cedar Point Dr., (off US 6) Sandusky419-627-2350, www.cedarpoint.com.

Challenge ParkLocated between Cedar Point and Soak City, Challenge Park activity complex features the RipCord Skycoaster, two go-kart tracks, miniature golf and Skyscraper, a thrilling ride that spins riders in a circular motion 16 stories above the ground at speeds of 55 mph.

Admission to Cedar Point or Soak City not required. Each attraction has a separate fee.

Open daily through Sept. 2 and weekends through Oct. 27.1 Cedar Point Dr., (off US 6), Sandusky419-627-2350, www.cedarpoint.com

Glacial GroovesThe world’s largest accessible glacial grooves, these scars in the limestone bedrock were carved 18,000 years ago by the ice sheet that covered part of North America. Fencing now protects this National Natural Landmark. A walkway and stairs permit visitors a good view of the grooves. Open year-round during daylight hours.Division Street, Kelleys Islandohsweb.ohiohistory.org/places/nw08

Monsoon Lagoon Waterpark Monsoon Lagoon waterpark and family entertainment complex features aquatic adventures including six waterslides, a lazy river, an adult pool with swim-up Tiki bar, and Adventure Island Tree House with 17 levels.

The Caverns are open seven days a week Memorial Day through Labor Day, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. The last tour departs one hour before close.

During the months of May (prior to Memorial Day), September (after Labor Day) and to mid-October, the caverns are open weekends (Saturday and Sunday) only from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.. The last tour departs one hour before close. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, daily hours are 9 a.m.-7 p.m., rain or shine.15248 E. Twp. Rd. 178 (off SR 269 S), Bellevue 419-483-6711senecacavernsohio.com

Lakeside ChautauquaListed on the National Registry of Historic Places, Lakeside, the Chautauqua on Lake Erie, is a family destination that has pioneered the act of nurturing mind, body, and spirit for more than 135 years. Spiritual, educational, cultural, and recreational opportunities are available. For a complete list of weekly themes and topics, visit www.lakesideohio.com/education. 236 Walnut Ave., Lakeside 866-952-5374, www.lakesideohio.com

Lake Erie IslandsPut-in-Bay/South Bass IslandThe Victorian-era village of Put-in-Bay on South Bass Island has been attracting visitors for nearly 150 years. Hundreds of thousands travel to Put-in-Bay annually to enjoy family fun activities, outdoor recreation and a large variety of special events.

Many begin with a narrated tour on the Island Tour Train. For those wishing to go at their own pace, there are golf carts, scooters and bicycles to rent. Families will find plenty to keep the kids entertained including a butterfly house, miniature golf, gem mining, cave tours, arcades, a carousel and go-kart racing. History enthusiasts won’t want to miss Perry’s Victory and International Peace Memorial.

2013 marks the 200th anniversary of the Battle of Lake Erie, and Put-in-Bay will take center stage for a year-long series of activities. The peak of the celebration will be Labor Day weekend, when more than a dozen tall ships will participate in a re-enactment of Commodore Oliver Hazard Perry's historic victory over the British fleet. Festivities will also include commemorative ceremonies, ship tours, day sails, educational programs, musical entertainment, and more.419-285-2832, visitputinbay.com

Perry’s Victory & International Peace MemorialThe nation’s third-tallest memorial structure, the 352-foot tall column commemorates Oliver Hazard Perry’s victory over the British during the War of 1812, and the lasting peace between the U.S., England and Canada since that time. The visitor’s center features displays, a video theater, ranger talks and interpretive programs offered free of charge and a gift shop. For operating hours for the Visitor Center and Memorial Observation Deck, call or see website.93 Delaware Ave., Put-in-Bay419-285-2184, nps.gov/pevi

Heineman’s WineryFounded in 1888, Ohio’s oldest family-owned winery offers tours, a tasting room and wine garden with light snacks. Tours include a visit to Crystal Cave, the world’s largest recorded geode, located directly below the winery. Tours offered daily through Sept. 25, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Winery open daily now through late October, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., except Sunday, when opening time is at noon. 978 Catawba Ave., Put-in-Bay419-285-2811,www.heinemanswinery.com

Kelleys IslandMost commonly explored by foot, bike, golf cart, and/or kayak, Ohio’s largest island offers fun and adventure for all ages, including 600 acres of state park lands, 17 miles of coastline, beautiful wildflowers, nature trails, a fossil-filled quarry, and wetlands that are admired by nature-lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

The downtown district that offers shopping and entertainment, as well as dining and drinking establishments. A high concentration of historic homes and buildings has earned Kelleys Island a spot on the National Register of Historic Places.

A lakefront campground and sandy beach attract most visitors in summer, while spring birding and fall Monarch butterfly migrations are popular seasonal events. www.kelleysislandchamber.com

Lake Erie Islands Hist. MuseumDisplays include more than 65 ship models; the South Bass Island Lighthouse Fresnel lens; and artifacts from the Battle of Lake Erie, island life and the Ford Tri-Motor and great hotel eras. There is a theatre, research library and bookstore. Hours (subject to change) June and September daily 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; July and August 10 a.m.-6 p.m. and October weekends 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. 25 Town Hall Place, Put-in-Bay 419-285-2804, leihs.org

undocumented

Should undocumented immigrants, brought to the U.S. as children, also known as "Dreamers," be allowed to stay in the U.S.?

Yes. They consider the U.S. their home

No. They should be deported, then apply for citizenship the legal way.

Yes. With conditions. They have a job or going to school, pay back taxes, and are contributing to society.

Yes. They consider the U.S. their home
(6 Votes)

37.5%

No. They should be deported, then apply for citizenship the legal way.
(2 Votes)

12.5%

Yes. With conditions. They have a job or going to school, pay back taxes, and are contributing to society.
(8 Votes)

50%

718196301[{"id":"241","title":"Yes. They consider the U.S. their home","votes":"6","pct":37.5,"type":"x","order":"1","resources":[]},{"id":"242","title":"No. They should be deported, then apply for citizenship the legal way.","votes":"2","pct":12.5,"type":"x","order":"2","resources":[]},{"id":"243","title":"Yes. With conditions. They have a job or going to school, pay back taxes, and are contributing to society.","votes":"8","pct":50,"type":"x","order":"3","resources":[]}]["#194e84","#3b6b9c","#1f242a","#37414a","#60bb22","#f2babb"]sbar160160/component/communitypolls/vote/90-undocumentedNo answer selected. Please try again.Thank you for your vote.AnswersVotes